There is emerging literature about older adults’ experience of loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic in long term care (LTC) facilities due to isolation protocols. Additionally, staff challenges while providing care for older adults in LTC has also been highlighted. While the literature emphasizes negative pandemic experiences, a gap exists with understanding resilience during the pandemic in LTC settings. The aim of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the experience of resilience in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) among residents, their family members, and staff. We conducted 19 in-person interviews and 1 via Zoom in fall 2021 with 5 residents (65 and older), 5 family members, and 10 staff (e.g., administrators, nurses, nursing assistants). A conventional content analysis was employed. While we did hear how the pandemic had a negative impact on everyone, the main themes of resilience identified were: 1) overcoming the pandemic together (sense of community); 2) experience and adaptation (over time being able to adapt to the disruption in their life); 3) staying safe (engaging in precautions and self-care strategies); and 4) positivity (mindset of getting through anything and relying on spirituality). Study findings can inform CCRC administrators on how to support residents, their family, and staff during future pandemics and other challenging times that may disrupt normal routines.
Nutritional status can impact the healing of chronic leg wounds (CLW). This secondary data analysis examined characteristics associated with nutritional status among aging adults (N=62, M= 57.5, SD 12.1 years of age) living with a CLW who were enrolled in a randomized control trial to test a novel ultrasound intervention on wound healing. Nutritional status (Mini-Nutrition Assessment, [MNA]), physical and mental health (36-Item Short-Form Health Status Survey), and inflammation (high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein [CRP]) were measured at baseline. Majority of the participants were male (54.8%), non-Hispanic Black (67.7%) and either malnourished or at risk of malnutrition (64.5%). Compared to individuals with normal nutrition, individuals with malnutrition or risk for malnutrition had on average poorer physical health (38.7 vs 33.4, p <0.01), mental health (52.4 vs 45.8, p=0.03) and greater inflammation (CRP=13.4 vs 24.0, p=0.05). Tailored interventions targeting nutritional status, inflammation, physical and mental health are needed in aging adults with CLW.
Residents and staff of continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) experienced many challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic including loss, social isolation, and staff turnover. This study examined factors that contribute to resilience in staff during the late stage of the pandemic using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Resilience scores ranged from 0 (low) to 100 (high). A total of 96 staff (76% female) were enrolled, and average age was 48.41 years (SD = 16.16). Average resilience in staff was 75.16 (SD = 11.81). Those under 35 years of age reported lower resilience scores (M = 67.38) compared to those 35-49 years of age (M = 76.65), 50-64 (M = 75.83), and 65 years and older (M = 82.71), p <.05. Staff who were married scored higher than those who were not (M = 76.63 vs 69.05), p < .05. Findings can inform professional development programs aimed at increasing coping skills in staff.
A gap exists with understanding the care required for community-dwelling persons living with dementia (PLWD) who have chronic wounds. As one step to address this gap we explored the experiences of nurses who care for community-dwelling PLWD that have chronic diabetic foot and venous leg ulcers. A qualitative descriptive approach with a conventional content analysis was undertaken. We conducted 5 focus groups with Home Health Nurses (n = 13) and nurses holding specialty certifications (e.g., wound care) (n = 3); 87.5% female, 69% White, non-Hispanic, mean age = 52 (range 32-67), mean years of experience as a nurse = 23.8. The main themes identified were 1) the challenges with dementia (e.g., confusion, taking dressings off), 2) concerns about the person (e.g., medical issues, financial considerations), and 3) adjusting interventions (for wounds and behavioral symptoms). Study findings can inform the develop of future novel interventions for PLWD and chronic wounds.
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